Intro
At the SERP Conf in mid-April, Gary Illyes from Google confirmed a significant URL deindexing event that occurred in February 2024. This was a result of a change in Google's perception of certain sites, leading to a vast number of URLs being removed from the Google Search index.
Explanation from Gary Illyes
Illyes clarified that the "crawled but not indexed" notices visible in Search Console could indicate general quality issues with a site. A high volume of such URLs may suggest a change in Google's perception of the site. However, he emphasized that these notices do not necessarily mean Google considers the site low quality. Instead, they are often due to technical issues.
Context of the Deindexing Event
In February, numerous SEOs observed their pages disappearing from the Google Search index, coinciding with several unconfirmed Google search ranking updates. This deindexing event led to significant concern and speculation within the SEO community.
Additional Topics Covered by Illyes
At the event, Illyes also addressed several other important topics:
-
Link Requirements for Ranking: He mentioned that Google requires very few links to rank pages, suggesting a shift in how Google values links in its ranking algorithms.
-
Actions on Parasite SEO: Illyes highlighted recent updates that targeted Parasite SEO tactics, which involve exploiting reputable sites to rank content.
-
301 Redirect Signals: He confirmed that Google has decided not to change the signals associated with 301 redirects for ranking and SEO purposes.
Key Takeaways for SEO Professionals
Understanding "Crawled but Not Indexed" Notices
SEO professionals should monitor "crawled but not indexed" notices in Search Console, as a spike in these can indicate potential quality or technical issues. However, it's crucial to diagnose the underlying cause, as it might not always be related to the site's perceived quality.
Adapting to Changing SEO Signals
The insights provided by Illyes suggest a need to adapt to evolving SEO signals. With Google requiring fewer links for ranking and maintaining its approach to 301 redirects, SEO strategies may need adjustment to align with these trends.
Staying Updated on Google's Algorithm Changes
Given the impact of unconfirmed ranking updates and significant deindexing events, staying informed about Google's algorithm changes is critical. SEO professionals should regularly check for updates and be prepared to adjust their strategies accordingly.
Conclusion
Google's admission of massive URL deindexing in February 2024 underscores the dynamic nature of search engine algorithms and the importance of staying informed about changes. By understanding the factors behind deindexing and adapting to evolving SEO signals, professionals can better navigate the complexities of maintaining and improving search rankings.
